Saying ‘No’ without FOMO

As an athlete, there’s a lot you end up missing out on during college. Friday night parties when you’ve got a 6 a.m. meet, spring break trips that overlap with training, spontaneous weekday hangouts. It’s tough. And if you’re anything like me, that fear of missing out can hit hard. Sometimes it feels like you’re watching your college years pass by from the sidelines.

I used to question it. I’d scroll through social media and feel that sting of “I should be there” or “I’m missing something.” There were moments when I felt isolated, like I was trading the full college experience for a never-ending cycle of workouts, meets, and exhaustion. But over time, I started to shift my perspective.

I’ve learned to find meaning in the discipline. I feel proud of the times I’ve said no, because I know exactly what I’m saying yes to instead. Growth, progress, and becoming the best version of myself.

That doesn’t mean I never make time for fun. In fact, staying social is what keeps me sane. I’ve just learned how to be intentional about it. Here are a few things that help:

• Quality over quantity: You don’t have to go to every event. In fact, going to few social events make them that more special. 
• Surround yourself with people who get it: When your friends respect your goals, you don’t feel bad for skipping out. My best friends are the same people I go through college athletics with, my teammates. 
• Plan ahead: Know when your off days are, and build in time for rest and fun. Don’t wait until you’re burnt out to take a breather.
  Protect your peace: Social media can fuel FOMO. Mute, unplug, or take a break if it starts affecting your mindset.

Since being in college, I can say it’s hard sometimes to not imagine my life now as anything else than it is. I may not be able to go to the 18+ bars on a Thursday or to the lake on  a saturday, but I honestly wouldn’t have my life with my tight group of friends any other way. 

Being a student-athlete teaches you a lot. One of the biggest lessons is learning that you don’t have to be everywhere all the time. You’re choosing something bigger and more important to you, and that’s a good and mature thing. 

It’s not about shutting yourself off from the world, it’s about knowing your priorities and finding balance. Because at the end of the day, I know the memories I’m making on the track, in the weight room, and with my teammates are just as real and just as meaningful as any party I didn’t go to.